Caries is not just a black spot in the tooth, but the most common infectious disease in which the hard tissues of the tooth — enamel and dentin — are gradually destroyed under the influence of acids. Almost everyone faces this problem, but many postpone a visit to the doctor, considering it frivolous. In fact, untreated caries is like a silent fire: it does not go away on its own and sooner or later leads to more complex and costly problems.
Why does tooth decay appear? The main reason is bacteria
Bacteria live in our mouth all the time. When we eat, especially sweet or flour-based foods, these bacteria convert the remaining carbohydrates into acids. It is these acids that begin to dissolve strong enamel, washing out minerals from it. This process is called demineralization.
Factors that "help" tooth decay:
1. Insufficient hygiene: irregular or poor-quality brushing of teeth.
2. Frequent snacking: especially sweets and carbohydrates, which constantly "feeds" the bacteria.
3. Plaque and tartar: these are accumulations of bacteria that are not removed by regular cleaning.
4. Reduced salivation: saliva naturally washes away plaque and neutralizes acids. Dry mouth increases the risk.
5. Genetics and general health: individual enamel strength and body condition also play a role.
6. Even with perfect care, the risk is not completely eliminated, which is why regular dental checkups are so important.
Stages of caries development: from an inconspicuous spot to severe pain
Caries develops gradually, and it is easy to stop it in the early stages.
1. The stage of the white (chalky) spot. A matte white spot appears on the enamel — an area that has lost minerals. The tooth does not hurt. This is the best time to treat without drilling! With the help of remineralizing gels and fluoride, the enamel can be strengthened.
2. Superficial caries. The enamel breaks down, roughness appears, sensitivity to sweet, cold or hot.
3. Average caries. The process has reached the dentin (the main tooth tissue under the enamel). A carious cavity is formed. Pain occurs when food is ingested and irritants are present.
4. Deep caries. The large cavity is separated from the nerve of the tooth (pulp) by a thin layer of dentin. The pain becomes severe and may appear on its own, especially at night.
What is the danger of untreated caries? The consequences go beyond the tooth
If caries is ignored, the destruction will progress and cause complications:
Pulpitis. When the infection gets to the nerve, it becomes inflamed — pulpitis. This is a sharp, throbbing pain that can radiate to the ear or temple. Treatment requires nerve removal and canal filling.
Periodontitis. The infection goes beyond the tip of the root. A focus of inflammation (cyst or granuloma) forms in the bone. There is pain when biting, the gum or cheek may swell.
Tooth loss. A badly damaged tooth can sometimes not be restored, and it has to be removed. This entails the cost of implantation or prosthetics, as well as the risk of malocclusion.
The effect on the whole body. A permanent source of infection in the mouth is a strain on the immune system. It can contribute to the exacerbation of diseases of the heart, joints, kidneys and allergic reactions.
Prevention: How to protect your teeth?
It is easier and cheaper to prevent tooth decay than to treat its consequences.
Proper hygiene: brush your teeth 2 times a day for 2-3 minutes, use dental floss to clean the contact surfaces.
Balanced nutrition: reduce the frequency of sugary drinks and snacks. It is better to eat one candy after the main meal than to stretch it for an hour.
The use of fluoride: fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwashes strengthens the enamel.
Regular visits to the dentist: professional hygiene (removal of plaque and calculus) and a preventive examination every 6 months make it possible to identify caries at the spot stage and prevent its development.
Caries is a process that does not stop on its own. The sooner you see a doctor, the
more painless the treatment will be (modern anesthesia completely solves the problem of fear).
Faster (at an early stage — one visit).
Cheaper (treatment of pulpitis or restoration of a tooth after removal is many times more expensive than a simple filling).
It is more gentle for the tooth (the maximum volume of healthy tissues is preserved).
Don't expect pain. Regular care and timely visits to the dentist are the only reliable way to keep your teeth healthy for many years to come.
Intern of Dental department No. 1 — Violetta I. Shishkova
